Data-driven content

Applying equally in-store and online , datadriven content has to be a key priority to maximize sales in the coming years . While content management systems ( CMS ) have been used fairly widely online for a number of years , more people are switching to the power of data-driven content . This is why we ’ ll be seeing an increasing number of retail stores embracing digital signage with embedded CMS . Designed to enable simple and responsive media updates , with inbuilt reporting capabilities , CMS can be combined with in-store analytics to help businesses understand their customers and deliver the content most likely to convert into sales . It ’ s the first step towards smarter marketing strategies and efficient selling on and off-line .

AI

Artificial intelligence ( AI ) is being deployed for an increasingly wide range of uses in the retail industry and that is only going to continue this year . Online , AI is already dominating , with chat bots , predictive analytics , and personalized recommendations . But there are further potential applications that we ’ re going to see being adopted across the sector . With AI – combined with machine learning ( ML ) – supporting accurate inventory management , with integrated demand forecasting , intelligent customer insights will shape marketing and supply chain . While facial recognition tech will enable smarter – maybe even tailored – in-store marketing .

Sustainability

While increasing sales is a priority , direct advertising isn ’ t the only approach and with sustainability being an important brand differentiator , it needs to factor into the plans of retailers . Especially if it can also be a means to cut costs . While digital signage is a great way to reduce paper consumption and in-store waste , new systems are being designed with the ability to reduce energy consumption by up to 20 percent , by reducing the brightness of the screen . Contemporary screens are also designed for simpler recycling , with many parts suitable for reuse . Enabling brands to show their green ethos , and get customers on side .

Immersive experiences

Talk of the metaverse has dominated the experiential sphere in the last year or two and we ’ re reaching the stage where it ’ s becoming a reality . If not completely immersive yet , it still holds massive potential for retailers . Opening

24